Four students named employee of the year
One Bennie, one Johnnie and one student team were awarded with student employee of the year title during student employee appreciation week.
During National Student Employee Appreciation Week, held April 7-13, CSB+SJU celebrated the contributions of their exemplary student workers. Among the honored were Megan Thienes, Tristin Thilmany and the accounting and finance department lead teaching assistant (TA) team, recognized as the 2023-24 Student Employees/Team of the Year.
Student nominees were evaluated from nomination letters that examined the employee’s greatest strengths, stand-out qualities, impact on the department or community, initiative and critical thinking abilities.
Thienes, a senior communication major from Blaine who works in the strategic communication studies department, stood out for her work ethic and commitment to excellence.
“Megan has set herself apart for her proactive work ethic, the excellent and professional quality of work she contributes to the department and her enthusiasm for contributing to the good of the department and university,” said Kelly Berg, professor of strategic communication studies and department chair.
Thilmany, a junior computer science major from Inver Grove Heights, , serves as events setup supervisor in CSB custodial maintenance. Hewas recognized for his leadership, communication, diligence and collaboration.
“Tristin’s greatest strength would have to be reliability. He’s a good communicator with everyone. However, his critical thinking and problem-solving skills outweigh his social skills because he never stutters in action,” said Jane Schulzetenberg, CSB custodial assistant team lead.
The accounting and finance department lead TAs, Lauren Pfeffer and Sydney Rohrer, were acknowledged for their collaborative efforts and commitment to student support. Boz Bostrom, professor of accounting and finance, praised their inclusive and vibrant tutoring environment, which positively impacted students and contributed to a sense of community.
“The energy which they have created on Simons 2 is contagious and a prime example of what makes St. Ben’s and St. John’s special,” Bostrom said.
Reflecting on their experiences, both Thienes and Thilmany expressed gratitude for the recognition and the value of student employment in preparing them for future careers.
“It was really amazing to be nominated. My boss and all the professors in the department worked together to write this nice letter, and I guess it just feels very validating to know that my presence over the last four years has not just been noticed but appreciated to the extent that they would nominate me for something like this,” Thienes said.
Thilmany echoed this sentiment, acknowledging the significance of student employment in developing practical skills and fostering personal growth.
“Student employment has provided me with invaluable practical experience and has taught me the importance of effective communication and collaboration with team members,” Thilmany said. “It’s been instrumental in developing my leadership skills and preparing me for my future career.”
